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The 11 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024

Our top electric and gas options come from Maytag and Samsung

A clothes dryer we recommend on an orange background

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

A clothes dryer is an essential part of home laundry care. Compared to air drying, these appliances reduce the time and effort needed to dry a load of laundry. Using circulated air and a tumbling drum, moisture is removed from your clothing, towels, or bedding for dry, fluffy items that are ready to be worn or folded. Whether you choose a gas or electric dryer will be based on the type of power source available in your home.

When shopping for a new dryer, it is also essential to consider factors such as budget, capacity, and helpful features. On the subject of capacity, appliance expert Craig Anderson, founder of Appliance Analysts, cautions users not to overload or under-load the dryer. “Your clothes will take much longer to dry, which can make your machine work harder, shortening its lifespan and damaging your clothes.” 

Popular brands like Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux, GE, and LG offer a range of models with different capacities, as well as steam or smart features that can make laundry care easier. We've researched the best electric and gas dryers on the market to suit different laundry spaces, cleaning needs, and budgets.

Best Overall, Electric

Maytag 7.4 Cu. Ft. Smart Electric Dryer

Maytag 7.4 Cu. Ft. Smart Electric Dryer with Extra Power Button

Bestbuy

What We Like
  • 11 drying cycles and five temperature settings

  • Hamper-style dryer door for easier loading and unloading

  • Wi-Fi equipped

  • Ten-year warranty for motor and drum

What We Don't Like
  • Not stackable

  • Lacks steam function

The Maytag MED6230HW Smart Electric Dryer is a popular, highly rated electric clothes dryer. We recommend this option for its 11 different cycle settings, wide range of temperature settings, and sensor drying technology. It’s also equipped with Wi-Fi, allowing you to check on cycle status or stop a load using smart home assistants like Siri, Google, and Amazon Alexa.

Choosing the correct dryer cycle for your laundry load is easy—just use the dial on the dryer's back panel to select your preferred cycle. You can adjust standard cycles by pushing the "Extra Power" button at the center of the dial. This delivers more heat and extends the drying time, which is especially helpful for a load of thick, heavy fabrics. This dryer boasts five temperature settings, compared to only three or four temperature options for other models. One feature you won’t find in this model is a steam setting, which may be a dealbreaker for allergy sufferers or anyone who frequently uses a sanitizing cycle.

Many electric dryers have a front-loading door that opens to the right or left, but this Maytag model uses a hamper-style door that pulls down flat when you open it. The advantage is that you can pull clean clothes from the dryer without worrying about dropping them on the floor as you transfer them to a laundry basket. This style of dryer door also eliminates concerns over whether you have enough clearance for a right- or left-swing door on your dryer. However, this dryer isn’t stackable, so you’ll have to plan on side-by-side installation with its matching washer or a top-load washer of your choice. It’s also worth noting that the dryer includes a ten-year warranty for essential components like the drum and motor, which should offer some additional peace of mind when investing in a new appliance.

Power Type: Electric | Dimensions: 41.25 x 27 x 29.88 inches | Capacity: 7.4 cubic feet

Best Overall, Gas

Samsung Gas Dryer with FlexDry

Samsung 7.5 Cu. Ft. Gas Dryer with FlexDry and Steam Sanitize+

Bestbuy

What We Like
  • Ten cycles and five temperature settings

  • Steam sanitizing cycle removes bacteria and allergens

  • Stackable design

  • Drum light to help you retrieve items

What We Don't Like
  • No Energy Star certification

  • Short warranty coverage

We recommend the Samsung Gas Dryer DVG45R6100W with FlexDry for modern laundry rooms with gas hookups. It’ll impress you with its wide range of temperature settings and cycles, including a steam mode for sanitizing or releasing wrinkles. The front-loading 7.4 cubic foot drum is spacious enough to keep up with large loads of freshly washed clothes. At over $1,000, there is a slight price premium compared to some of the most budget-friendly models, but it includes an array of features that add to the value.

You can pick one of ten cycle options using the dial on the front of the dryer, and you can adjust dryness, temperature, and time settings using the digital control pad. The control pad also specifies other features you can take advantage of, like modes for wrinkle prevention or reduced energy usage. However, this is not an Energy Star-certified dryer, so don’t expect dramatic energy efficiency. The Steam Sanitize+ option on this gas dryer is good news for allergy sufferers. This specialty cycle eradicates allergens like pollen and dust mites and eliminates up to 99 percent of germs and bacteria. 

Flexibility of installation is another reason to pick the Samsung Gas Dryer DVG45R6100W. It offers three venting locations (back, bottom, left side) and can be stacked with a compatible front load washer, if you wish. The dryer is also equipped with Wi-Fi, but the use is mainly limited to monitoring cycle status and troubleshooting any errors using the Samsung Smart Washer/Dryer app. (For safety reasons, most gas dryers don’t enable you to start or stop a cycle remotely.)

Warranty coverage for this model is limited to one year, which is typical for many models but falls short of some of the most impressive dryer warranties on the market, including the ten-year coverage for the drum and motor on models like the Maytag MED6230HW, our top electric pick.

Power Type: Gas | Dimensions: 38.75 x 27 x 31.5 inches | Capacity: 7.5 cubic feet

Best Budget

GE 7.2 cu. ft. Electric Vented Dryer with Wrinkle Care

GE GTD42EASJWW 7.2 cu. ft. Electric Vented Dryer with Wrinkle Care

Home depot

What We Like
  • Quiet and efficient sensor drying modes

  • Four heat settings

  • Lint filter at the front of the drum is easy to remove and clean

  • Extended tumble option to prevent wrinkles

What We Don't Like
  • No smart features

  • Not stackable, and door isn't reversible

  • Limited one-year warranty

The GE GTD42EASJWW is a budget dryer that costs under $800 but doesn’t cut major corners on laundry care. While it doesn’t offer Wi-Fi capability (like our top electric model, the Maytag MED6230HW), this model is known for quiet operation, accurate sensor drying, and other useful features like a drum light and easy-to-use lint filter at the front of the dryer drum. The right-swing dryer door isn’t reversible, and this dryer isn’t stackable, either. But as a vented dryer, it does offer four exhaust vent possibilities—bottom, left side, rear, right side. 

The GE GTD42EASJWW offers more cycle options than some budget dryers, allowing you to better tailor the cycle to your laundry load. You can pick between sensor drying based on load type (Casuals, Delicates, Cottons, or Easy Care) or a timed dry cycle. Dial in your preferences further by adjusting the heat setting for the cycle: Regular, Medium, Low, or Air Fluff (no heat). Many of the most affordable dryers only offer three heat settings, but this option from GE includes four. If you can’t remove your dry clothes right away, this appliance includes an extended tumble option to keep wrinkles from setting in. The electro-mechanical controls are basic but easy to use, adding to the appeal of this pick for budget-conscious shoppers looking for a simple, reliable dryer. It comes with a limited one-year warranty.

Power Type: Electric | Dimensions: 44 x 27 x 29.5 inches | Capacity: 7.2 cubic feet

Best Splurge

Samsung 7.5 cu. ft. Smart Dial Gas Dryer with FlexDry

Samsung DVG60A9900V 7.5 cu. ft. Smart Dial Gas Dryer with FlexDry

Samsung

What We Like
  • Two dryer compartments in one machine

  • Steam cycle

  • Vent sensor and lint filter indicator light

  • Energy Star certified 

What We Don't Like
  • Large dimensions might not fit for small laundry spaces

  • One-year warranty

The Samsung Smart Dial Gas Dryer stands out for its long feature list and innovative design that caters to the needs of delicate items with a smaller, separate top dryer compartment. This built-in drying rack is ideal for drying a sweater, shoes, or accessories using heat and time settings independent of the larger dryer drum. In total, this dryer offers 7.5 cubic feet of space and is large enough to fit even king-size blankets. While it is roomy, it’s also very efficient and qualifies for Energy Star certification, which can save you on utility costs. 

The Smart Dial on this gas dryer uses Samsung’s AI technology to learn your laundry care routine and suggest frequently used cycles. A steam function can sanitize laundry loads or refresh garments by eliminating odors and reducing wrinkles. With a Wi-Fi connection, you can keep tabs on the dryer's cycle status and receive a reminder when it’s time to clean your dryer vent. And if you ever forget to clean the lint screen, the machine will gently remind you so that you can enjoy safe, efficient drying performance. Anderson advises homeowners to clean the lint screen after every laundry load and to deep clean it with soapy water and a soft brush every two to three months. “This way, you’ll keep your dryer from overheating, and you’ll avoid clogging the vent system.”

The Samsung Smart Dial Gas Dryer requires a big spend, costing about $2,000. Samsung only backs it with a one-year warranty, and it’s available in a single finish (black stainless steel). Despite these potential drawbacks, it’s a powerful, versatile dryer that's also energy efficient, making it worth the splurge for households that want to fine-tune their clothes care routine.

Power Type: Gas | Dimensions: 46.9 x 27 x 32.5 inches | Capacity: 7.5 cubic feet

Best High-Capacity Dryer

LG Signature DLEX9500K 9 cu. ft. Large Capacity Vented Smart Electric Dryer

LG Signature DLEX9500K 9 cu. ft. Large Capacity Vented Smart Electric Dryer

Home depot

What We Like
  • Spacious 9-cubic-foot drum

  • Extra-wide, angled door opening for easier loading and unloading

  • 14 cycle settings, including steam cycles

  • Reversible door

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

  • Wider than other sets

  • Only available in one finish

Most clothes dryers have about 7 cubic feet of capacity. This is typically plenty for drying average to large loads of clothes, sheets, or towels. But if you have a high-capacity washing machine, it makes sense to pair it with an equally capable dryer. The LG DLEX9500K Mega Capacity Electric Dryer will wow you with its 9-cubic-foot drum. At 29 inches across, it’s wider than most clothes dryers that measure only 27 inches wide, but if you have the space and the budget for this model, it’s worth it.

The LG Signature Mega Capacity Electric Dryer also facilitates easier loading and unloading. The door is designed with ergonomics in mind and has an angled opening. This reduces the need for bending over as you remove that last sock from the bottom of the cavernous drum. The drying performance of this model is impressive, too. A sensor drying system helps to ensure that even large loads dry evenly and efficiently. There are more than a dozen cycles to choose from, including steam cycles to sanitize towels, baby clothes, cloth diapers, and more. Other features of this dryer that can improve your clothes care routine include an option for reducing static and another setting to lightly mist clothes to make them easier to iron. 

This model in the LG Signature series has a modern look, but it’s not stackable. It's also only available in a black stainless steel finish, although many people find that look attractive. On the plus side, it has a reversible dryer door and four venting locations (back, bottom, left side, and right side) to accommodate your laundry room configuration.

Power Type: Electric | Dimensions: 40.88 x 29 x 33.39 inches | Capacity: 9 cubic feet

Best Smart Clothes Dryer

Samsung Smart Dryer with Steam Sanitize+

Samsung 7.4 cu. ft. Smart Electric Dryer with Steam Sanitize+

Home depot

What We Like
  • Wi-Fi connection enables remote functions and monitoring

  • 12 cycles (including steam) and five temperature settings

  • App can diagnose error codes and offer maintenance tips

  • Energy Star certified

What We Don't Like
  • Slanted top isn’t the best for storing items or folding clothes

  • Taller than other dryer models

Smart appliances continue to evolve, improving with useful and efficient functions to make daily tasks easier or faster. Laundry appliances are no exception, and we recommend the Samsung DVE55A7300E as the best smart dryer option. It’s Wi-Fi enabled—just connect the appliance to your home network to take advantage of monitoring, notifications, troubleshooting, and remote start/stop features using the Samsung Smart Washer/Dryer app. It’s also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. The $1,200 retail price reflects the usefulness of this dryer’s features and its highly-efficient energy usage. Although electric dryers are known for using more energy than their gas counterparts, this model is Energy Star certified, making it a smart choice in more ways than one. 

This electric dryer offers more functionality than most gas dryers equipped with Wi-Fi. For safety reasons, gas dryers generally don’t allow you to remotely start or stop the dryer cycle. However, with an electric dryer like the Samsung DVE55A7300E, you can take advantage of these functions and more. On the subject of cycles, this smart dryer has 12 options and five temperature settings to find the right match for each load. It also offers a steam cycle, which is advantageous for ensuring that bacteria or allergens are eliminated from your laundry.

Safety is a key part of this dryer’s smart features. Using the Samsung Smart Washer/Dryer app, you can receive alerts when the dryer exhaust vent needs to be checked or if an obstruction is detected. This can be a real safeguard, as accumulated lint in the exhaust vent can be a fire hazard. And while this Samsung dryer is generally considered very reliable, it’s worth noting that you can use the app to diagnose any error codes if they pop up, along with suggestions for remedying the issue. 

If you have shelves or other small space constraints in your laundry area, you should always measure your dryer. In the case of the Samsung DVE55A7300E and its matching dryer, it’s worth noting that the appliances measure about 2 inches taller than other similar machines. If you have low shelves or cabinets, the height could pose a problem, especially since the matching washing machine is a top-loader that needs clearance for the lid to open properly.

Power Type: Electric | Dimensions: 45.81 x 27 x 30.25 inches | Capacity: 7.4 cubic feet

Best Stackable Clothes Dryer

GE Stackable Electric Dryer

GE 7.8 Cu. Ft. 10-Cycle Stackable Electric Dryer

Lowe's

What We Like
  • Ideal for saving space in small areas

  • EcoDry mode for increased energy savings

  • Steam cycle

  • Smart connectivity

What We Don't Like
  • Stacking kit not included

A stackable dryer is a great option for saving space in your laundry room. Instead of needing double the floor space for two large appliances, stackable laundry pairs take advantage of vertical space in your laundry area, garage, or basement. While you have many stackable washer and dryer sets to choose from, the GE GFD55ESSNWW is a popular pick.

This stackable dryer offers plenty of capacity (7.8 cubic feet), along with ten drying cycles and five temperature settings to coordinate with the laundry care of its matching washer, the GE GFW550SSNWW. The dryer impresses users with its quiet, efficient operation, thanks to high-efficiency sensor drying and an EcoDry mode for reduced energy usage. Other noteworthy options include a steam cycle for removal of odor-causing bacteria and allergens and smart features, including the option to receive damp alerts for delicate loads that you prefer to finish with air drying.

The GE GFD55ESSNWW is a vented dryer with four options for exhaust (bottom, left side, rear, and right side). The reversible door adds to the flexibility of installation for this stackable dryer. Keep in mind that you will need to purchase a stacking kit to give your laundry setup a vertical orientation, but this is typical for most stackable sets. The fact that this dryer and its matching washer are Energy Star certified makes this set a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Power Type: Electric | Dimensions: 39.75 x 28 x 32 inches | Capacity: 7.8 cubic feet

Best Ventless Clothes Dryer

Whirlpool WHD862CHC 7.4 cu. ft. Electric Ventless Dryer

Whirlpool WHD862CHC 7.4 cu. ft. Electric Ventless Dryer

AJ Madison

What We Like
  • Larger capacity drum than other ventless models

  • Energy Star certified for more efficient operation

  • 31-inch depth means it fits in most closets

  • Stackable

What We Don't Like
  • Requires a drain

  • Longer drying times

  • No smart features

Unlike vented dryers that require an exhaust duct, this Whirlpool model has a heat pump that allows for ventless operation. While other ventless dryers have limited capacity and more basic features, the Whirlpool WHD862CHC is highly efficient while handling full-size laundry loads in its 7.4-cubic-foot drum. You can expect longer drying times with a ventless dryer, but using recirculated hot air greatly reduces the dryer’s energy usage. The Whirlpool WHD862CHC qualifies for Energy Star certification.

The right-swing door isn’t reversible, but other aspects of this ventless dryer’s design make it versatile enough to install in different spaces. It doesn’t require an external exhaust vent, and it has a 31-inch depth—shallow enough to fit in most closets. Rather than releasing hot, steamy air through an exhaust vent, the machine uses an evaporator to collect moisture, which is discharged through a drain hose into a floor drain, standpipe, or laundry tub.

Flexibility of installation is one reason why many people shop for a ventless dryer, but the Whirlpool WHD862CHC also distinguishes itself from the competition for its easy-to-use cycle settings. A digital touchpad covers six basic types of loads, then offers you six ways to adjust the cycle based on your laundry routine with options for wrinkle control, a gentle dry, or a quick drying cycle if you’re in a hurry. A second control pad controls temperature, time, and extended tumble settings. In total, there are 36 possible cycle settings for this dryer, meaning you’ll have no shortage of options for drying your items. This dryer lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, so there are no smart features. Even still, it’s worth considering if you prioritize energy efficiency or need a ventless dryer for your laundry space.

Power Type: Electric | Dimensions: 38.75 x 27 x 33 inches | Capacity: 7.4 cubic feet

Best Clothes Dryer with Steam

Electrolux 8 Cu Ft Gas Dryer

Electrolux 8 Cu Ft Front Load Gas Dryer with LuxCare

Lowe's

What We Like
  • Great choice to minimize allergens and wrinkles

  • Steam refresh can replace a full wash and dry cycle for individual items

  • 11 cycles and five temperature settings

  • Energy Star certified

What We Don't Like
  • No smart features

Some clothes dryers include a steam function that rids laundry loads of allergens and bacteria while banishing wrinkles and odors. A dryer with steam typically has a price premium compared to models that lack this feature, but it may be worth the spend for allergy sufferers or anyone that avoids ironing at all costs. If you fall into either category, we recommend the ElectroluxPerfect Steam Gas Dryer. This Energy Star-certified dryer retails for about $1,200 and has the look and function to fit in your modern laundry room, with an attractive white or titanium finish. 

The steam settings on this clothes dryer are called upon for the machine’s Instant Refresh cycle, which is a fast way to refresh clothing. The ten-minute steam cycle loosens wrinkles and freshens individual items for another wear, without the need for washing and drying. It’s ideal for jeans or a jacket that may only need a quick tumble to be ready for an outing. Or use the Perfect Steam cycle option on a full load of clothes to reduce wrinkles and static. 

With 11 available cycles and five temperature settings, it’s easy to dial in the right settings for every item. In addition, this front-load machine is equipped with sensors for more precise drying. This feature helps prevent premature wear of your clothes by means of over-drying or the frustration of retrieving a completed laundry load, only to find that the items are still damp. It even offers a speedy 15-minute cycle for faster drying of items you need quickly.

The biggest potential trade-off of this dryer with steam is that it doesn’t include any smart features. You’ll have to look into your laundry room every so often to know when the cycle is finished, and you won’t receive maintenance reminders like you do with our top smart dryer pick, the Samsung DVE55A7300E. Despite that, we’d still recommend this dryer if your top priority is accurate, fast drying times with the power of steam.

Power Type: Gas | Dimensions: 38 x 27 x 31.5 inches | Capacity: 8 cubic feet

Best Value

LG DLE7400VE 7.3 cu. ft. Large Capacity Vented Electric Dryer with Sensor Dry and EasyLoad Door

LG DLE7400VE 7.3 cu. ft. Large Capacity Vented Electric Dryer with Sensor Dry and EasyLoad Door

Home depot

What We Like
  • Great balance of price and features

  • Easy drum access with two-way door

  • Sensor drying for energy savings

  • Longer extended tumble option to prevent wrinkles

What We Don't Like
  • Slanted top isn’t the best for storing items or folding clothes

  • No steam function

If you’re balancing budget and features, we recommend the LG DLE7400VE. This electric dryer combines user-friendly features and design innovations into one affordable machine. It retails for less than $1,200 and has sensor drying plus a versatile door that opens two ways. Choose a hamper-style door opening for tight spaces or a swing door if you want to quickly pull a load of clothes from the dryer into a basket below the opening. 

There is no shortage of cycle options on this model—take your pick of 12 cycles and five temperature settings. And although electric dryers use more energy than their gas counterparts, this dryer uses high-efficiency sensor drying and an eco-friendly mode to save you on energy costs. While this smart model has plenty of features to make it worthy of a spot on our list of the best dryers, it doesn’t have steam. In addition, the top of this dryer is slanted, which has come as a surprise to some users who are used to keeping laundry supplies stored on top of the dryer. 

Power Type: Electric | Dimensions: 44.25 x 27 x 29.5 inches | Capacity: 7.3 cubic feet

Best Compact Clothes Dryer

GE DSKP333ECWW Spacemaker 3.6 cu. ft. Portable Electric Dryer

GE DSKP333ECWW Spacemaker 3.6 cu. ft. Portable Electric Dryer

The Home Depot

What We Like
  • Larger capacity drum than other compact options

  • Four-way venting

  • Designed to reduce operating noise

What We Don't Like
  • Limited cycle settings

  • Door is not reversible

For a compact dryer, we recommend the GE DSKP333ECWW Spacemaker. This 3.6-cubic-foot dryer has smaller dimensions (23.75 by 24.5 by 33.25 inches). It also weighs less than a typical full-size clothes dryer—87 pounds instead of about 120 pounds. Its smaller footprint makes it a good fit for a laundry closet or if you need to make space in your kitchen or bathroom for a clothes dryer. There are three cycle settings to pick from: Cotton, Timed Dry and Quick Fluff. Admittedly, this is fewer cycle options than what most homeowners are accustomed to. However, the three heat setting options give you a chance to fine-tune the cycle to meet your needs.

The drum is smaller than what you’ll find in a typical clothes dryer. However, at 3.6 cubic feet, its capacity is larger than other portable dryers on the market with only 1.5 to 2 cubic feet of interior space. In addition to a small footprint, this model is a great pick for a compact dryer because it offers four-way venting. You can choose to vent the dryer from the bottom, left side, right side, or rear of the appliance. However, the door is not reversible and is right-swing only.

Power Type: Electric | Dimensions: 33.25 x 23.875 x 24.5 inches | Capacity: 3.6 cubic feet

Final Verdict

Our top pick for an electric dryer is the Maytag Smart Electric Dryer, which has plenty of capacity, 11 cycles, five temperature settings, an advanced moisture sensor, and remote programming. For the best gas dryer, check out Samsung's 7.5-cubic-foot Dryer with FlexDry. This Wi-Fi-enabled front-loader includes a sanitizing setting that kills 99.9 percent of germs.

What to Look for in a Clothes Dryer

Power Source

When shopping for a clothes dryer, the biggest decision you'll have to make is whether to choose a gas or electric model. Gas dryers typically cost about $100 more than the corresponding electric model, but they are significantly more energy-efficient. However, if you don’t have an existing gas line to your dryer location, the installation cost and the upfront price premium for a gas model could sway you to stick with an electric dryer.

Installing an electric dryer is typically as simple as plugging the appliance into a 240-volt outlet. That being said, a gas dryer only needs a 120-volt outlet. Again, your existing utility setup is usually the best guide of which type of power source to pick for your new dryer. 

The Spruce's Home Improvement Review Board member Larry Campbell also notes that all new dryers you purchase will have their power cords sold separately, as there are two different kinds of outlets used for dryers. You'll need the proper cord for the outlet in your home.

Size

The dimensions of a clothes dryer and the design specifications of your laundry area will impact where you place it. Measure the width, depth, and height of the spot where you plan to install the dryer, plus any doorways en route to your laundry space. Since most dryers have a front opening, the height isn’t usually a major concern, but be sure to measure the available space if you have low shelving or cabinets that might need adjustment. 

Many clothes dryers measure about 27 inches wide and 33 to 35 inches deep, but more compact units exist for laundry closet installation. For example, the ventless Whirlpool WHD862CHC is only 31 inches deep, requiring less space and no external venting. Another option is a portable dryer, which is small enough to fit on shelving or in tight spaces. The GE Spacemaker Portable Electric Dryer weighs less than 90 pounds and measures 23.75 wide and 24.5 inches tall. You might decide you want to have a washer and dryer set that matches and buy them at the same time, so be sure to take measurements to encompass both machines.

Capacity

Most clothes dryers have 7 to 8 cubic feet of capacity, which pairs with the size of most household washing machines (4.5 to 5.5 cubic feet of capacity is typical). It’s important not to pick a dryer that is too small for your washing machine, since that results in longer drying times or repeated cycles for large loads. 

If you rely on a high-capacity washing machine for your household’s laundry needs, then you should definitely consider a supersized dryer. The LG Signature DLEX9500K adds 1 to 2 cubic feet of capacity compared to most dryers on the market. It’s your best bet for efficiently drying extra-large loads or if you regularly launder king-size blankets and bedding. 

Venting

Most clothes dryers are vented, meaning that they exhaust hot, damp air to the exterior of your home. You’ll need to position your dryer close to the exhaust vent, which is why you’ll see venting options listed as a key specification for any dryer model. Most have three-way or four-way venting, which will include vents on the bottom, rear, and one or both sides of the appliance. 

If it’s impossible to vent your clothes dryer, you’ll have to shop for a ventless model. This type of dryer condenses the heat of the drying cycle, sending the moisture through a drain hose and the heat back into circulation in the drum of the dryer. You’ll find that a ventless model typically takes longer to dry a load of clothes, but it’s a great solution if your laundry setup doesn’t allow for conventional venting.

Standout Features

Stackable

To maximize available space in your laundry area, a stackable dryer and washer may be an ideal setup. Instead of having side-by-side appliances, the dryer fits on top of its matching washer. You’ll typically need to buy a stacking kit to ensure the installation is safe and secure. 

Keep in mind that if you want a stackable dryer for your existing washer, you’ll need to shop within the same appliance series. Craig Anderson, founder of Appliance Analysts, says, “Not all laundry units (even those designed by the same manufacturer) can be stacked, this is why you should always read the user manual to check if the models you’re trying to stack are compatible.” 

Energy Star Certified

Saving electricity is eco-friendly and budget-friendly. Conventional electric dryers are typically not energy-efficient enough to qualify for Energy Star certification. However, newer models to the market often are equipped with sensors to more accurately detect remaining dampness and have energy-saving drying modes. Some of these models, like the GE GFD55ESSNWW Stackable Electric Dryer, are certified by Energy Star to be more energy-efficient. 

Since gas dryers typically use natural gas to generate heat, electric usage is minimal. These dryers are often the preferred pick for reduced energy usage. Many of these models are Energy Star certified. 

Other Dryer Features 

Some dryers offer additional features that enhance the appliance's effectiveness or make it more user-friendly. A few of the most popular options are sensor drying, steam cycles, and smart features. 

  • Sensor drying detects the level of the remaining moisture in the load. It can help to eliminate damp spots in thick fabrics or jean pockets. It also minimizes damage to clothing fibers by ending the cycle once clothes are dry.
  • Steam cycles on a dryer serve more than one purpose. Anderson says, “Steam can eliminate wrinkles and help you save a lot of time and energy. It can also kill bacteria and other organisms, which is great if you live with young children.” The feature is usually found on mid-range to high-end dryers, but it is worth the additional cost if you want to eliminate allergens and bacteria. Frequently, dryers with a steam cycle also offer a short refresh cycle that can quickly shake out wrinkles and freshen garments for another wear.
  • Smart features are available on dryers (and washers) with Wi-Fi. While the features vary by manufacturer and dryer model, you can expect to be able to use an app to check the remaining dryer cycle time or receive an alert when the cycle is over. For many electric dryers, you can also remotely start or stop the dryer. This is the case for our top choice for a Wi-Fi equipped dryer, the Samsung DVE55A7300E Smart Dryer with Steam Sanitize+. You can use the Samsung Smart Washer/Dryer app or smart home assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Home to keep up with your laundry load. 

FAQ
  • What does “high-efficiency” mean in a dryer?

    A high-efficiency designation for a dryer indicates that it offers reduced energy usage compared to similar models. Anderson says that a high-efficiency or Energy Star label on a dryer “means that your appliance supports key features (such as low heat setting or moisture sensors) that will help you save money on energy bills and protect the environment.” He says you can expect about 20 percent in energy savings when compared with conventional dryers.

  • How much does a dryer typically cost?

    Clothes dryers vary in price, based on factors like capacity, power source, and features. On average, an electric clothes dryer costs between $550 and $1,200. Most electric models are also available as gas dryers—opting for gas versions will typically tack $100 onto the price. High-capacity dryers or those with many cycle options and extra features can cost up to $2,000.

  • How many years should a dryer last?

    Like any other major appliance, clothes dryers have a typical life expectancy. According to Anderson's expertise, “If you keep up with the recommended maintenance, your dryer should last 10–13 years. Bear in mind that this can also vary depending on how much you use it.” This means that heavily used dryers that do many loads of laundry each week (such as those in vacation rentals or large households) may require replacement sooner.

The Checkout Counter

Before you check out, consider these products you may also need to complete your laundry room.

  1. Grove Co. Wool Dryer Balls & Eucalyptus Essential Oil Set: These wool dryer balls can help reduce wrinkles in your favorite fabrics and keep items moving around your dryer's drum so they dry more efficiently. We have personally found that they've upgraded our laundry routine.
  2. Holikme 2-Pack Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit: Cleaning the lint out of your clothes dryer is an important measure to take for your home's safety and the overall maintenance of your appliance, and these lint brushes can help you get into all the nooks and crannies.
  3. Honey-Can-Do Wooden Laundry Drying Rack: For delicate fabrics in your closet that need air-drying, look to this clothes-drying rack that's super easy to store and lightweight. One of our editors has owned it for over two years and still uses it every week.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Erica Puisis is a researcher and freelance writer for The Spruce, with years of experience testing and writing about appliances large and small. She has hands-on experience with a variety of washer and dryer sets, including both gas and electric dryers. For this article, she researched the most popular dryer models from brands like Samsung, Maytag, GE, Whirlpool, LG, and more. She considered both gas and electric dryers and compared options based on capacity, dimensions, cycle settings, and features that make using a dryer a delight.

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